The Awareness Center closed. We operated from April 30, 1999 - April 30, 2014. This site is being provided for educational & historical purposes.
We were the international Jewish Coalition Against Sexual Abuse/Assault (JCASA); and were dedicated to ending sexual violence in Jewish communities globally. We did our best to operate as the make a wish foundation for Jewish survivors of sex crimes. In the past we offered a clearinghouse of information, resources, support and advocacy.

Arrested after admitting to 60 counts of assault and related charges, including molesting nine boys, aged seven to 11, and filming several of them. Daniel Gersh stated in court: "My life is over. I have been trying to hide this since I was 13 years old."

Many of the vulnerable youngsters were deceived into believing the assaults would help them become football stars, thus enabling Gersh to go undetected for some time.

Gersh is a former FA-registered coach, was checked and cleared by police when he volunteered to take part in football nights at Jewish community centre Sinclair House in Redbridge, Essex, in 1995. He also coached at Jewish summer camp Na-Sho-Pah in New York 15 years ago.

Gersh was arrested in October 2006 when a mother contacted police after her nine-year-old son spoke out. Officers from the Child Abuse Investigation Team studied the material seized from his home and went on to identify a further eight victims.If
you know or have any concerns regarding the activities of Gersh and feel
it may be relevant or find it helpful to talk to someone, the police
and social services have set up dedicated telephone lines for people to
ring."

The numbers are 020 8217 6415 for the police, and 020 8708
3014/3565 for Redbridge social services. ___________________________________________________________________________________

Disclaimer: Inclusion in this website does not constitute a recommendation or endorsement. Individuals must decide for themselves if the resources meet their own personal needs.

Paedophile’s familyBy Rosemary KleinThe Jewish Chronicle - June 9, 2007 Your letter writer Mr Kauffer should make no mistake (Letters, August 31). Paedophiles
are manipulative and will not hesitate to hide behind the honour of
their family name to further their obscenities. They know exposure of
their crime will cause upset and embarrassment to their relatives yet
play with this inappropriate anxiety to continue their abuses.

It
is a terrible consequence of the crime they commit that their family is
humiliated; if, however, that humiliation becomes a tool to inhibit
predators, it is valid and just to use it.
The family must blame the criminal who is the cause of their shame.

Mr
Kauffer must remember that there would be no publicity had these
criminal men kept their dark and devious thoughts and desires within the
confines of their twisted minds.___________________________________________________________________________________

A PAEDOPHILE who used his Essex-based football club to assault young boys pleaded guilty to a string of child abuse charges on Tuesday.

Daniel Gersh, 35, of Aldborough Road, Ilford, was director of the Southside Juniors' Football Club for four years, and used his position to gain children's trust and molest them.

Gersh appeared at Blackfriars Crown Court and pleaded guilty to a total of 60 child abuse charges:

Three counts of sexual assault of a child under 13.

The assault of a child under 13

Eight counts of indecent assault on a male person.

12 counts of making an indecent photograph.

Eight counts of taking an indecent photograph.

22 counts of possessing indecent photograph of a child.

Six counts of possessing with a view to their being disturbed or shown.

Gersh has been remanded in custody for sentencing on a date to be confirmed.

The paedophile was arrested after a nine-year-old boy said he had been abused by the football coach and his parents called the police.

A computer hard drive and home video tapes found in the abuser's home contained more than 55,200 indecent images of children and 3,140 indecent movies of children.

Detectives in the Met's Child Abuse Investigation Command's Major Investigation Team went on to identify eight more boys who were abused by Gersh after studying the material.

Detective Chief Inspector Dave Marshall, leading the investigation from the unit base in Stratford, said: "Daniel Gersh worked under the guise of a dedicated football coach to groom and abuse young boys.

"He displayed a frightening level of planning using his football coaching expertise to gain the trust of children and their parents. Once unsupervised with the boys he would often become aggressive before abusing them.

"Many of the vulnerable youngsters were fooled into believing the assaults would help them become rising football stars, thus enabling Gersh to go undetected for some time.

"We can only hope that the conviction of Gersh today goes some way to help the families affected and prevent any more children from suffering in the same way."

The family of a convicted paedophile spoke this week of how their “world was shattered” as they learned of
the offences committed by their 35-year-old son, football coach Daniel
Gersh.

Last week Gersh, who is in custody awaiting sentencing,
pleaded guilty to 60 counts of assaults and related charges against nine
boys aged between six and 11 years old. He used an Essex-based football
club as the base for his assaults.

His father, Paul, a past chairman of South West Essex Reform Synagogue, told the JC:
“The first we knew of this was when the police knocked on the door in
October. Our world was shattered but we have stood by him ever since.
He’s been in custody continually since then but never denied his guilt."

“At
his first court appearance he took the opportunity to plead guilty for
the sake of the children involved. He’s not excusing what he did. He did
wrong and will pay the price. Those children and their parents will get
justice.”

Gersh coached football at Sinclair House, the Jewish
community centre, in Redbridge and a Jewish summer camp in New York.
Years later, he committed 60 offences against nine boys aged six to 11.

A former colleague of Gersh’s at the summer camp said that
Gersh had been trusted by parents and children and was considered “an
ideal person working with kids.” But police said he showed “a
frightening level of planning” in gaining children and parents’ trust,
and that victims had thought the abuse would help their football
prospects.

Gersh, of Ilford, Essex, filmed himself molesting boys
and was found to have over 55,200 indecent images of children and 3,140
indecent films of children on his computer. Some included scenes of
sado-masochism and bestiality. An electrical salesman, who was a fully
qualified coach, Gersh offered training at schools and football camps in
Redbridge.

Daniel Carmel-Brown, manager of Sinclair House, said
he was “shocked” by the news. A decade ago, Gersh was given the
all-clear by a police check when he volunteered on football club nights
in 1995 and 1996.

Mr Carmel-Brown said: “I would like to reassure
all centre users that volunteers are always carefully scrutinised — and
police checked — prior to working with children and are supervised
during the course of their duties.”

A former counsellor at Camp
Na-Sho-Pah in New York, where Gersh coached football 15 years ago, said
he and camp participants — now in their 20s — had been “very surprised”
at the news.___________________________________________________________________________________

No responsible person can minimise the seriousness of the actions of paedophile Daniel Gersch (Youth coach exposed as serial paedophile, August 24). The suffering of these children and their parents will be with them for many years — absolutely tragic.

But I take issue with the JC’s
decision to give this such prominence on your front page, in bold black
headlines. There is no issue on my part about reporting this, however
surely the story could have been on an inside page. Not a scintilla of
compassion was given to Daniel Gersh’s parents and the whole chagrin
that they now have to endure. They are respected members of their
community and they must carry this heavy burden for the rest of their
lives.

Harry Kauffer
London Road, Stanmore Middx
V Describing someone who has admitted a charge of sexual assault and has had previous convictions as a “strictly Orthodox Jew” is perverse (Groper had fetish for touching women’s coats, August 24).

As
Jews, we are so often rightly outraged by the argument that offences
against us are somehow mitigated by a religious connection. We do not
generally accept that a genuinely religious person would be committing
offences of a serious nature against someone else.

To my mind, the admitted behaviour demonstrates conclusively that the culprit cannot possibly be “strictly Orthodox”.
One cannot have one’s cake and eat it too.

A Paedophile’s parents take a public standJewish Chronicle - November 9, 2007

We wish to thank Harry Kauffer (Letters, August 31) for his sympathetic and insightful criticism of the JC concerning the total lack of compassion for our family which it displayed in
its front-page coverage of our son Daniel’s tragic offences.

We wish also to take issue with Rosemary Klein (Letters,
September 7) who wrote in response to Mr Kauffer’s letter and displayed
breathtaking arrogance and heartlessness concerning the awful ordeal
which we have endured since October of last year, when Daniel was
arrested and remanded in custody. To suggest that our son hid behind the
honour of our family name is ludicrous — we are neither famous, wealthy
nor influential — and her opinion that there was some link between our
“upset and embarrassment” (as she puts it) and Daniel’s abuses,
labelling our feelings as “inappropriate anxiety”, makes us wonder if
she has ever experienced excruciatingly painful grief such as we have
endured during these past 11 terrible months. Her trivialisation of our
suffering is inhuman, insulting and contemptuous.

If she believes
that our humiliation is a tool to inhibit predators, she is vastly
mistaken. Yes, Daniel feels true remorse for his actions (to which he
pleaded guilty at the first opportunity), both towards the children
affected and their parents and also to his own family. However, his
crimes have been committed, he has pleaded guilty to them and, with the
appropriate counselling, he will never offend again once he has served
his sentence.

Banner headlines in the JC have caused
consternation with our family, friends and the community in which we
have raised our children for the best part of 40 years. We are so
grateful that those who really know us and Daniel have
provided much-needed support and understanding during these
life-changing times. We question whether Ms Klein would be capable of
showing the same support to any of her friends should they ever find
themselves in a similar position.

Perhaps Ms Klein will be able to spend some time reflecting on her lack of compassion during the forthcoming High Holidays.

A youth football team director from Ilford who sexually assaulted boys has been jailed for 12 years, police said.

Daniel Gersh, 36, admitted a string of sex offences against children and was sentenced at Blackfriars Crown Court.

Police said an investigation was launched last year after a parent reported concerns about Gersh.

Officers found more than 50,000 indecent images of children and 3,000 indecent movies featuring children on his computer.

The material identified eight boys abused by Gersh, who was a director of a youth football team for four years, police said.

Police said Gersh pleaded guilty to offences including sexual and indecent assaults on children and possession of indecent images of children.

At Wednesday's sentencing hearing, Gersh was jailed and also banned from working with children for life, police said.

Detective chief inspector Dave Marshall, who led the investigation, said: "I have tremendous respect for all of the victims who found the strength and courage to come forward, and I wish to record my thanks to their friends and families who have provided them with incredible support throughout this investigation.

"Without this, it is possible that Gersh may have continued to offend and go undetected."

Paedophile who preyed on youth football club jailLondon Metropolitan Police - December 20, 2007

A paedophile, who used his Essex-based football club to assault young boys, was sentenced at Blackfriars Crown Court on 19 December 2007 to an indeterminate sentence of imprisonment. He will be put on the Sex Offenders Register for life and has received a life long ban for working with children.

Six counts of possessing with a view to their being distributed or shown (contrary to Section 1(1)(a) of the Protection of Children Act 1978)

Gersh acted as Director of the Southside Juniors' Football Club, a junior football club for four years.

In October 2006 a concerned parent contacted police after her nine-year-old son made an allegation against Gersh. As a result officers from the Child Abuse Investigation Team arrested Gersh and searched his Ilford address.

During the meticulous search officers seized a computer hard-drive and home video tapes.

These were examined and found to have in excess of 55,307 indecent images of children, and 3,152 indecent movies of children.

The case was dealt with by officers from the Met's Specialist Crime Directorate Child Abuse Investigation Command and led by their Major Investigation Team based at Stratford. Officers viewed the seized material, including the video footage, and detectives went on to identify a further eight boys abused by Gersh.

Detective Chief Inspector Dave Marshall, who led the investigation from the unit base in Stratford, said:

"I have tremendous respect for all of the victims who found the strength and courage to come forward, and I wish to record my thanks to their friends and families who have provided them with incredible support throughout this investigation. Without this, it is possible that Gersh may have continued to offend and go undetected.

"Under the guise of a football coach this man clearly abused his position of authority to take advantage of vulnerable and impressionable young boys.

"He displayed a frightening level of planning and used his football coaching expertise to gain the trust of children and their parents. He compounded some of the abuse by recording it on a video camera and storing it on his home computer.

"Many of the vulnerable youngsters were deceived into believing the assaults would help them become football stars, thus enabling Gersh to go undetected for some time.

"Gersh failed to co-operate with police, I therefore would like to appeal once more to anyone who may have information regarding the criminal actions of Daniel Gersh, to call our Major Investigation Team on 020 8217 6415 or Redbridge Social Services on 020 8708 3014 / 3565. In addition if you have any further information, or have any knowledge regarding the whereabouts of the recording equipment, including the camera that Daniel Gersh used and police have never recovered, we urge you to call us.

"This sentence goes some way to help the families affected and remind Londoners that we relentlessly pursue those who abuse children, particularly when in a position of trust, and bring them to justice to protect children. I must emphasise that it is up to all of us to ensure our children are safeguarded and encourage anyone who has fears for the safety of a child to report them to the authorities."

Official statement regarding Daniel GershRdebrdge i - December 20, 2007

The following is Redbridge Council's statement regarding Daniel Gersh.

"Redbridge Council has no comment to make about today's Court proceedings. We welcome the Football Association initiative to strengthen their investment in child protection in the light of the fact that Daniel Gersh was a registered Football Association coach.

"If you or your family have been affected by this issue or you are concerned about any contact that you or your family may have had with Daniel Gersh, please phone the Council's hotlines on 020 8708 3565 or 8708 3014 from 9am to 5pm Tuesday 18 December to 1pm Monday 24 December (closed weekends) where you can speak confidentially to one of our social workers."

Paedophile preyed on football youngsters(UK) Guardian - December 20, 2007

A PAEDOPHILE who used his Essex-based football club to assault young boys pleaded guilty to a string of child abuse charges on Tuesday.

Daniel Gersh, 35, of Aldborough Road, Ilford, was director of the Southside Juniors for four years, and used his position to gain children's trust and then molest them.

Gersh appeared at Blackfriars Crown Court and pleaded guilty to a total of 60 child abuse charges: l Three counts of sexual assault of a child under 13 l The assault of a child under 13 l Eight counts of indecent assault on a male person.

12 counts of making an indecent photograph.

Eight counts of taking an indecent photograph.

22 counts of possessing an indecent photograph of a child.

Six counts of possessing with a view to their being distributed or shown.

Gersh has been remanded in custody for sentencing on a date to be confirmed.

The paedophile was arrested after a nine-year-old boy said he had been abused by the coach and his parents called the police.

A computer hard drive and home video tapes found in Gersh's home contained more than 55,200 indecent images of children and 3,140 indecent movies of children.

Detectives in the Met's Child Abuse Investigation Command's Major Investigation Team went on to identify eight more boys who were abused by Gersh, after studying the material.

Detective Chief Inspector Dave Marshall, leading the investigation from the unit base in Stratford, said: "Daniel Gersh worked under the guise of a dedicated football coach to groom and abuse young boys.

"He displayed a frightening level of planning, using his coaching expertise to gain the trust of children and parents. Once unsupervised with the boys, he would often become aggressive before abusing them.

"Many of the youngsters were fooled into believing the assaults would help them become rising football stars, thus enabling Gersh to go undetected for some time."

`How many more did he abuse?'By Rachel FletcherThe JC (England) - December 21, 2007

A paedophile who used his role as a football coach to prey on young boys may have abused other victims beyond the nine referred to in court, police said this week.

Daniel Gersh, 36, was jailed after admitting 60 counts of assault and related charges, including molesting nine boys, aged seven to 11, and filming several of them.

When officers raided his home in Ilford, Essex, they found 55,307 indecent images of children on his computer.

Police also found 3,152 indecent films, some including scenes of sado-masochism and bestiality. Gersh also had more than 1,195 hard copies of indecent images.

There was also a document detailing 29 methods of abuse. It read: "This child is an eight-year-old boy who I'm going to sexually abuse. I will molest him at the flat. It will be filmed on digital camera for use on trader P2P."

After the hearing, Detective Inspector Keith Braithwaite said: "I do believe there are more children out there that he's abused.

"He did not co-operate with police. If you know or have any concerns regarding the activities of Gersh and feel it may be relevant or find it helpful to talk to someone, the police and social services have set up dedicated telephone lines for people to ring." The numbers are 020 8217 6415 for the police, and 020 8708 3014/3565 for Redbridge social services.

Patrick Power, managing director of Redbridge Children's Trust, said: "I think it's the best sentence that could have been achieved in the circumstances. The judge acknowledged it is very difficult to consider he would ever be safe with children."

Gersh, a former FA-registered coach, was checked and cleared by police when he volunteered to take part in football nights at Jewish community centre Sinclair House in Redbridge, Essex, in 1995. He also coached at Jewish summer camp Na-Sho-Pah in New York 15 years ago.

He sat with his head bowed throughout the two-day hearing at Blackfriars Crown Court. Judge David Martineau told him that he had a "persistent and premeditated" approach to grooming boys.

He added: "Your behaviour in my view was seriously aggravated by the fact that you often filmed what you were doing, thus keeping a permanent record of it to be viewed for your own purposes as often as you liked.

"I am quite satisfied you have a deeply ingrained propensity towards this behaviour involving boys aged six to 11, and this propensity is very likely to be incurable."

Gersh, who had been in custody since his arrest, was told that he was being given an indeterminate jail sentence. He will be able to apply for parole in less than five years but Judge Martineau warned him the chances of release were "slim".

He received "significant credit" for his guilty plea, because he had saved court time and prevented the victims having to testify.

His lawyer Allan Goh said that Gersh had not abused for financial gain, that he had made "efforts to rehabilitate himself" and that his admission "touched on what happened to him himself when he was young". He had also written a letter to the victims' families, which was not read out in court.

Referring to some of the video footage, Mr Goh accepted there had been "slapping" of children but said that any violence used "was at the very lowest end of the scale".

Gersh was arrested in October 2006 when a mother contacted police after her nine-year-old son spoke out. Officers from the Child Abuse Investigation Team studied the material seized from his home and went on to identify a further eight victims.

The court heard how Gersh told them: "My life is over. I have been trying to hide this since I was 13 years old."

He also told them: "I never penetrated any, apart from digitally. My life's a mess for the past 20 years. You guys must be disgusted. It's going to be a nightmare. You hear about all these things."

He then asked whether a particular victim, known only as Child 8, had reported him. When the police confirmed it, he said: "What I did to him was wrong.

"I'm only good at one thing. I have an affinity with kids. I'm good at music. I write songs."

A statement from the mother of one victim read in court said: "Although we have done nothing wrong, we feel we let our son down."

Gersh is banned from working with children, having unsupervised access to them or owning equipment capable of downloading images from the internet. He is also on the sex offenders' register.

Earlier this year, Gersh's father Paul, a former chairman of South West Essex Reform Synagogue, attacked the JC's "total lack of compassion" after it ran a front-page story detailing his offences.

When we first reported the horrendous crimes of Daniel Gersh, in August, the JC was berated for reporting his guilty pleas prominently "in bold black headlines". His parents wrote to condemn this newspaper's "total lack of compassion for our family", for whom the case had caused "excruciatingly painful grief". Then, as now, we acknowledged how difficult it must have been for Gersh's family and associates to accept and cope with the enormous damage he had wrought to children unfortunate enough to have attracted his interest. But we make no apology for placing foremost in our minds today the young victims who will have to deal for the rest of their lives with the impact of this series of tragedies, and their own families and friends whose own lives have in turn been torn apart. We salute those brave enough to have agreed to give evidence in this awful case, and to the police and legal teams who have finally brought Gersh to justice. There is, of course, no happy ending: we still need to know why Gersh was given the all-clear by a police check when he volunteered on football club nights in the mid-1990s, and questions must be asked about why earlier warning signs were not acted upon. But it is right that such a persistent and pernicious paedophile is no longer on the streets to perpetrate his cruel abuses. And right that the community, through its newspaper, refuses to play down his crimes' significance.

Some of the information on The Awareness Center's web pages may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. I am making such material available in my efforts to advance understanding of environmental, political, human rights, economic, democracy, scientific, and social justice issues, etc.

I believe this constitutes a 'fair use' of any such copyrighted material as provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law. In accordance with Title 17 U.S.C. Section 107, the material on this site is distributed without profit to those who have expressed a prior interest in receiving the included information for research and educational purposes.

For more information go to: http://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/17/107.shtml . If you wish to use copyrighted material from this update for purposes of your own that go beyond 'fair use', you must obtain permission from the copyright owner.

Friday, August 10, 2007

Back
in May I sent the following letter to the US Department of Justice
regarding Proposed Guidelines. Below is my letter and the response I
just received back today. I thought you might find it interesting.

Vicki
_______________________________

From: Vicki PolinSent: Saturday, May 19, 2007 9:45 PMTo: GetSMARTSubject: Proposed Guidelines
I was wondering what is being done to protect children from offenders
who have never been convicted, especially with the new trend of
offenders pleading to lessor charges to avoid being placed on the sex
offender registry.
In many more insulated Jewish communities it is frowned upon to report
an offender to the "secular authorities." Instead rabbi tend to handle
the cases on their own. Often chasing an offender out of town to
unsuspecting new community. I know that this is not just happening in
Jewish communities and is a problem that needs to be addressed.
Sincerely,
Vicki Polin, MA, ATR-BC, LCPCThe Awareness Center, Inc.
(The Jewish Coalition Against Sexual Abuse/Assault)
P.O. Box 65273, Baltimore, MD 21209
www.theawarenesscenter.org
443-857-5560
________________________________________________________________________

Ms. Polin,

You ask a very difficult question. If a sexual assault is not reported
to the authorities, then there is no way for the legal system to
intervene. In order to be required to register under the Adam Walsh
Act, a sex offender must be convicted. Consequently, there is nothing
we can do at the federal level to deal with sex offenders who are dealt
with unofficially by a community.

The issue of allowing accused sex offenders to plead to offenses that do
not require registration is a concerning problem. As a former child
abuse prosecutor it would be concerning to know that a sex offender is
allowed to plead to a reduced charge unless there was a proof problem
with the case. I say this with the knowledge that these cases can be
very difficult to prosecute for a myriad of reasons. Improving
prosecution rates often times is aided by a well functioning
multidisciplinary team within your local judicial system. If you are
interested in this issue in your community, I would suggest that you
speak with someone at your local prosecutors office or if you have one,
a local child advocacy center.

WARNING TO WOMEN: If you are a single
woman stay away from Yochanan Berkowitz

The following information is being provided in hopes
of preventing another women from becoming the next victim of a sex
crime.

Jonathan
(Yochanan) Berkowitz was born in December, 1972.

Yochanan Berkowitz - Alleged Sex Offender

There have been a few allegations of Jonathan Berkowitz
committing date rape either on the first or second date. There have
also been numerous allegations that Berkowitz has been sexually inappropriate
with women he has dated not to the extend of date rape. One of the
alleged survivor of date rape filed a police report, went through a rape
exam at a local hospital and attempted to pursue this matter with the criminal
court system.

A Grand Jury reviewed the matter and considered the
evidence involved. As a result of its review, the Grand Jury did not
find probable cause for the return of an indictment. Therefore, criminal
prosecution was not pursued on this case.

Over the last several years The Awareness Center received
numerous phone calls from various women in the New York/New Jersey area regarding
Yochanan Berkowitz's behavior while dating. Many have described his behavior
as being sexually inappropriate for an orthodox man others described his
behavior as sexual harassment.

A common theme has been for Jonathan Berkowitz to ask
several women at the same time to date him exclusively. Another theme
is to present himself as a psychologist to potential dates. According to
the New York licensing bureau, Yohanan Berkowitz holds a Masters Degree in
social work and is licensed as
LMSW
(Licensed Masters of Social Work). According to the state of New York
and New Jersey only individuals who hold a Ph.D. or PsyD may call themselves
a "psychologist. It is illegal to identify oneself as a psychologist as Berkowitz
often does. Berkowitz's past alleged victims seem to be young, beautiful
women who are going through some sort of personal crisis.

Jonathan Berkowitz is an alumni of
Ohr Somayach - Monsey, NY.

Various rabbonim in both Passaic, NJ and Monsey,
NY are very much aware of the allegations made against Berkowits. The
Awareness Center has been told that they feel that Yochanan is ok to be dating,
even though he has never under gone a evaluation by a mental health professional
who specializes in evaluating alleged sex offenders. One of the rabbis
who are advocating for Jonathan Berkowitz is
Rabbi Avrohom
Braun, who is the director of Admissions and Education, at Ohr Somayach,
Monsey, NY. Another friend of Berkowitz is
Rabbi Akiva
Tendler, also an employee of Ohr Somayach.

RABBI AVROHOM BRAUNDIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS AND EDUCATION

Rabbi Avrohom Braun

Rabbi Braun received his ordination at the
Yeshiva Torah V’Daas in Brooklyn. Having served as the Director of the
Beer HaGolah Institute of New York, he became the Director of Admissions
and the Educational Director of Ohr Somayach in 1982. Since his
arrival at Ohr Somayach, Rabbi Braun has guided thousands of students
through their educational decisions and offered invaluable advice
regarding careers and marriage. His much sought after counsel is a
testimony to his sincere commitment and involvement with each student’s
progress.

Rabbi Tendler studied in Beis Moshe of Scranton, PA
as well as in the Mirrer Yeshiva in Jerusalem. Before joining Ohr Somayach,
he worked as a student counselor and guide at Aish HaTorah and Ner Yaakov
in Jerusalem. He holds a Doctorate of Jewish Law from Ner Israel Rabbinical
College. Rabbi Tendler is the author of a number of highly acclaimed Rabbinical
Responsa on contemporary halachic issues. He serves as the senior student
counselor and liason and co-ordinates with each student his individual, short
and long term learning goals. Besides his prodigious talents, Rabbi Tendler
is also an internationaly recognized composer and musician. His latest CD,
Simchas Libi, was released in Summer 2004.

Definition of Acquaintance Rape (including Date
Rape)is any non-consensual sexual activity between two or more
individuals who know each other. Acquaintance Rape can happen between
friends, spouses, girlfriends and/or boyfriends, people who just met, etc.
Acquaintance and Date Rape are often very difficult types of crimes to prove
in a court of law.

According to the US Department of
Justice

61% of sexual assaults are not reported to the
police.

84% of all rapes in the United States are Date
(Acquaintance) Rapes

A woman is 5 times more likely to be raped by someone
she knows.

57% of all sexual assaults take place on dates or
in the context of relationships

If the rape is reported to police, there is a 50.8%
chance that an arrest will be made.

If an arrest is made, there is an 80% chance of
prosecution.

If there is a prosecution, there is a 58% chance of
a felony conviction.

If there is a felony conviction, there is a 69% chance
the convict will spend time in jail.

So, even in the 39% of attacks that are reported to
police, there is only a 16.3% chance the rapist will end up in prison.

Factoring in unreported rapes, about 6% of rapists—1
out of 16— will ever spend a day in jail. 15 out of 16 will walk
free.

n. A felony charge that a Grand Jury issues that is
based upon a proposed charge, witnesses' testimony and other evidence that
the District Attorney (public prosecutor) presents. A Grand Jury's indictment
does not find guilt, but only the probability that a crime was committed
and that the accused should be tried. The District Attorney will often only
introduce sufficient facts to show the probability of guilt in order to save
time and avoid revealing all of the evidence. Under the Fifth Amendment to
the U.S. Constitution, "No person shall be held to answer for a capital,
or otherwise infamous crime, unless on presentment of a Grand Jury...." Many
states will only use grand juries in moderation and use the criminal complaint
followed by a preliminary hearing with the lower court judge or other magistrate
to determine whether enough evidence has been presented to support the accused
having committed a felony. If the judge determines that enough evidence exists,
he/she will order the appropriate court to hear the case.

Worked with students with emotional handicaps in 6th
and 7th grade. Created lesson plans and made modifications based on students'
individualized educational plans (IEP). Led student team meetings with an
emphasis on behavior management. Developed a career guidance class. Initiated
parent contact. Maintained student records and peer support.

SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST, SCHOOL SOCIAL WORKER

Yochanan Berkowitz

Board of Education ~ Brooklyn, NY ~ September 1994
~ June 2006

Worked with children of all ages. Participated on a
child study team, case managing a caseload that ranged from 40-70 students.
Participated and led initial, eligibility, parent, revision and annual meetings.
I observed, interviewed, and tested children in a variety of settings, using
a wide spectrum of testing material. Established and maintained close ties
with both the administrative staff, as well as all the teachers, therapist,
and aids. Kept current with the state codes, parental rights and laws. Received
excellent individual, team, and district wide supervision. Created and
implemented behavior modification plans, as well as a plethora of other
forms.

Counseled children, adolescents, couples, and families.
Area of specialty is in individual and family problems, troubled relationships,
parent-child issues, separation and divorce, anxiety and depression. Worked
predominantly with individuals however I also ran many different
psycho-educational groups. Wrote TPR'S and billed various insurances

Supervised 10 professionals working under my auspices.
Implemented a new billing system, allowing revenues to increase by 200%.
Prepared clinic for OMH audit, using corrective plan of action, and a thorough
utilization review system. After passing the audit and receiving a tier II
certification, put into effect all changes. Worked closely with state and
local officials to raise monies and obtain additional support. Created outreach
program with local community.

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT, CSW

Yochanan Berkowitz

Fordham Tremont Center~ Bronx, NY~ July 2003~ June
2004

Assisted the directors in implementing OMH rules,
regulations, and procedures. I prepared the clinic for two audits. Conducted
quarterly Utilization Reviews. Served as Liaison between the clinic and various
HMO'S. Attended various meetings by state, and city representatives. I supervised
social work students. Maintained a small caseload of individual and group
cases.

CLINICAL SOCIAL WORK SUPERVISOR, ADMINISTRATIVE
ASSISTANT

Yochanan Berkowitz

Jewish Board of Family & Children Services ~ Brooklyn,
NY ~ March 2002 ~ June 2003

Worked with children, adults, families, and couples
in need of a variety of mental health services. Performed administrative
tasks, supervised caseworkers, and social work students. Maintained a caseload
of both individual, group psychotherapy clients. Performing intakes. Led
clinical service team meetings. Managed service operations and treatment
planning.

OUTPATIENT SOCIAL WORKER

Yochanan Berkowitz

New Hope Guild ~ Brooklyn, NY ~ September 1999 ~ July
2000

Worked with adults and children. Maintained a caseload
of adult patients requiring individual therapy. Engaged in play therapy with
pre-school age children. Attended weekly supervision with the Clinic
Director.

I love the outdoors, specifically hiking and biking.
I'm outgoing, growth oriented, communicative, understanding, loyal, patient
and strong willed. I can take the lead and follow through with my goals.

I believe in the following: In the soil of complacenency
true growth has poor nourishment. and, Until you learn how high you CANOT
jump you will never really know how high you CAN jump.

I was raised in a religious home but attended a modern
orthodox high school. From there, I spent two years in Israel combining Yeshiva,
University and the army. I have a strong passion for Israel and hope to one
day spend summers there. I got a double masters from NYU and enjoy working
in the field of psychology. I am very holistic and eclectic based, as I
incorporate YOGA and other Relaxation Techniques in my practice. I recently
took off 6 months to study in yeshiva Ohr Somayach, and will now be returning
to full time work.

I got married young and have one beautiful daughter,
who is four years old. It was a very amicable divorce and I see my daughter
frequently and am a very involved father. This is what I am looking for in
a mate:

Cultered, joyfull, kind/warm, growth orientated,
communicative, and have a zest for life (fun). Want an open home (within
reason), and be involved with her community(or want to be)

Hobbies and Interests: almost every traditional
sport, the gym, as well as recreational sports including (but not limited
to) rock- climbing (occasionally), skiing, hiking the outdoors, long meaningful
conversations, the ocean, traveling and culture (film, theater, art
etc.)

Physical Attributes

Height: 170 cm/5' 7"

Build: athletic

Do you smoke?: no

Religious Practice

Frequency of Torah Study: weekly

Frequency of Tefilah: three times daily

Kippa: suede/leather kippa

Tzitzit: always

Modern Orthodox Machmir means to me

To be able to integrate the world, travel, culture
etc. with a desire to always grow as a spiritual halachic Jew. Enjoying life
without having to look for loopholes.

This is how I describe myself:

My friends describe me as easygoing, spiritual,
spontaneous, warm, worldly, and having a tendency to entertain guests. I
value open communication, humor, and I'm always looking for ways to grow
and better myself: spiritually, emotionally, and physically. Having an open
(within reason), welcoming kiruv-and-community oriented home and family is
important to me.

I'm always looking for growth opportunities with my
Jewish studies, profession, hobbies, personal journey and various other
interests. However number 1 on my list has been and remains family. I'm very
active and enjoy participating in almost every traditional sport, the gym,
as well as recreational sports including rock- climbing (occasionally), skiing,
hiking, traveling and culture (film, theater, art etc.) I am very open-minded
within Halacha.

I want to build together with my soul mate an amazingly
open, honest, sharing relationship while raising a home with good/healthy
values, a lot of love, and sharing.

I grew up with traditional orthodox values; however,
over time I developed a Bal-Teshuva sou :) I did most of my "true"
religious/spiritual growing and learning in Bal-Teshuva yeshiva's and
organizations, and most recently under the mentoring of an amazing and
open-minded Rabbi. I have a double master's in School Psychology, and Clinical
Social Work. I love what I do and enjoy a nice variety of working for a hospital,
as well as a private practice. I'm also an orthodox Yoga/Health & Fitness
instructor.

I got married when we were both young (relatively 25)
and we got an amicable mutual agreed upon civil divorce and get without any
litigation B'H. I consider myself blessed to have had a very amicable divorce,
and a beautiful (REMOVED).

This is what I am looking for in a woman

You are distinctive! You are a warm and worldly, sensitive
and smart, nurturing, natural, and easy-going. You are worldly-wise, value
open communication, benevolent humor, and are always looking for ways to
grow and better yourself: spiritually, emotionally, and physically.

Having an open, welcoming kiruv-and-community oriented
home and family is important to you, and you are very open-minded within
Halacha. Perhaps you enjoy Sunday hikes, travel, music, and other creative
outlets?

I need someone who will live in the Tri-state area
(as I have a daughter who lives in NY and I am very close with her) , at
least for the next few years then the world is our oyster :) I do not prefer
long distant relationships so NY, NJ, CT, and PA is more realistic but not
mandatory.

As a Clinical Psychotherapist and School Psychologist
for over 12 years I am genuinely committed to creating a safe space to help
facilitate and enhance the quality of life for all of my clients. I counsel
children, adolescents, families, adults, and couples. My training and post
graduate experience is very eclectic and includes the following approaches;
gestalt, and cognitive behavioral therapy for adults and adolescents, play
therapy for children, Ackerman's therapy for families, and Imago couples
work. I am well versed in many aspects of psychological adjustment including
anxiety, phobias, depression, survivors of abuse, social difficulties, child
and adolescent behavioral management, job related issues, general stress
reduction, and couples and partners therapy.

I have run a myriad of groups as well. I am a certified
Yoga, Breath Work & Meditation (YBM) instructor and incorporate this
training into the therapeutic process. I incorporate a holistic approach
to the therapeutic process - emotional, behavioral, spiritual, and cognitive
aspects of the client are vital to the process of counseling. We all experience
times in life when we feel a bit off-center . Therapy can provide needed
relief, a sense of peace, release us from anxiety, and empower us to reach
our potential. I regard the process of counseling as completely personal
and tailor it to each individual, family or couple. We will set the goals
and the time frame to fit your needs and expectations. If you would like
to schedule an appointment or if you have any questions regarding the process
of being in therapy or any of the services we offer, please feel to call
or email.

When Jonathan Yochanan Berkowitz talks to his clients about yoga, he is referring
to a 5,000-year-old philosophy. Hatha yoga incorporates slow stretches, breathing
and relaxation techniques which result in wonderful physical and emotional
benefits.

The word yoga originally comes from the Greek term "yoke." In this definition,
yoke means to connect.

When Jonathan Yochanan Berkowitz practiced a few minutes each day, Hatha
yoga helped him connect with his body by helping him clear his mind and focus
his attention inward. He can help you achieve the inner peace you've been
searching for.

Jonathan Yochanan Berkowitz on the concept of Hatha Yoga

The whole concept behind Hatha yoga is really pretty basic and some of those
aerobic stretches you might see in the newspaper or at your health club are
actually based on Hatha yoga stretches. The difference is that Hatha yoga
stretches are referred to as "postures" that are performed slowly and gently
rather than energetically and repetitively.

As a result, Hatha yoga is an ideal practice for almost everyone, no matter
what physical shape they're in. Jonathan Yochanan Berkowitz's classes consist
of many people with different fitness levels. Some of Jonathan Yochanan
Berkowitz's students have neck and back problems, chronic headaches, shoulder
or knee injuries.

Yoga is one of the best exercises for people with arthritis and heart disease.
It is also highly recommended for pregnant women.

Regular practice of Hatha yoga involves very little equipment - all you need
is a quiet place, about thirty minutes a day and comfortable clothing. But
this minimal investment of time can bring a variety of benefits including
flexibility, increased muscle tone, better posture, reduced PMS, fewer daily
aches and pains, more inner peace and a better attitude toward life.

The stretching and breathing performed in Hatha yoga helps improve circulation.
This, in turn, provides regular nourishment to cells throughout your body.
If your cells don't receive enough nourishment, they grow sick and die. As
a result, you can frequently feel sick and tired. After even a week of practicing
Hatha yoga, however, you may feel rejuvenated and stronger than you have
in years.

Frequent computer users and desk sitters should know that Hatha Yoga with
Jonathan Yochanan Berkowitz is outstanding for releasing physical tension,
especially in the head, neck, shoulders and lower back. Doing some stretches
at work for the neck, arms and lower back can help reduce aches and pains
received while hunched over a keyboard.

In this day and age when people are frantically searching for fountains of
youth in bottles and books, yoga keeps us looking young and radiant as we
grow older. The combination of flexibility, cleansing breaths and inner serenity
helps deter aging. With the help of Jonathan Yochanan Berkowitz 50, 60, and
70-year-olds who practice yoga regularly look and feel healthy.

When it comes to starting a yoga program, Jonathan Yochanan Berkowitz suggests
the following tips:

Take it slow. You're not trying to win a marathon or an aerobics competition
when practicing yoga.

The whole point of the technique and philosophy is to enter and leave postures
slowly and gently.

Breathe slowly and frequently. Deep breathing in Hatha yoga helps you maintain
focus while bringing more oxygen to your blood stream and muscles.

Practice yoga regularly. Even if you only have enough time to do just a few
postures a day, you'll still notice an overall increase in your health,
flexibility, vitality and attitude toward life.

Stretch as far as you can - and don't force it. Even if you've never done
a stretch in your life and your flexibility is equivalent to that of a
two-by-four, you can still benefit from Hatha yoga stretches.

Do what you can to maintain comfort. For example, those who might suffer
from low-back problems should perform floor postures with knees bent rather
than legs straight out.

If the idea of sitting cross-legged on the floor is an unpleasant one, feel
free to use a chair. The lotus position isn't a requirement when it comes
to "stretching it out" and receiving the incredible benefits of Hatha yoga.

Yochanan Berkowitz is genuinely committed to creating a safe space to help
facilitate and enhance the quality of life for his clients.

Yochanan has twelve years of experience in the mental health field and
specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy for adults, adolescents, and
children. He is well versed in many aspects of psychological adjustment including
anxiety, phobias, depression, social and relational difficulties, medical
illness, child and adolescent behavioral management, job related issues,
and general stress reduction. Yochanan Berkowitz runs a myriad of groups
as well.

Yochanan's approach is to provide a supportive and humanistic place where
a client can be heard and also receive feedback. He uses an eclectic combination
of different therapies in order to tailor the work to meet the individual's
needs and goals.Yochanan Berkowitz also incorporates a holistic approach
where an individual's spiritual beliefs are incorporated and the mind-body
connection can be explored.

As an Individual, Family and Couples therapist Yochanan Berkowitz is able
to help people improve their emotional well being, enhance their ability
to engage in interpersonal relationships and empower them with the tools
necessary to take control of their lives. Yochanan Berkowitz has been privileged
to have the opportunity to assist people in changing their lives and would
welcomes the opportunity to take that journey with you as well.

Yochanan Berkowitz adds another dimension to his services by providing didactic,
interactive and experiential workshops that assist participants by working
on specific topics of concern to enhance their lives. The workshops and events
provide a safe environment to connect more deeply and explore what needs
changing. In this safe, holding and nurturing environment participants learn
relevant information and new perspectives that change their world-view,
reposition themselves for success in any area of their life, feel understood
and "gotten", connect more deeply with loved ones, and gain new tools and
skills set for immediate implementation.

They are enlightening, inspirational, motivational, and provide tons of resources
to take home. Let yourself be captivated by one of our dynamic and life changing
workshops, and get moving on creating the life and relationship of your dreams

As a professor in the Long Island University Graduate School of Education,
I have come to know Jonathan Berkowitz quite well. This student has excellent
clinical skills and was very professional in all of his interactions with
both faculty and peers.

I find him to be a highly intelligent, talented, very perceptive, responsible,
enthusiastic young man, who gained the respect of many educators, and fellow
students.

His overall academic achievements were outstanding. His testing and problem
solving abilities are notable. His study habits were commendable. His verbal
and written expression is clear, well organized, and stimulating. He exhibits
a strong sense of self-discipline and self-determination. His use of discretion
and foresight displays a high degree of maturity. His initiative in doing
research manifested his ability to work independently as well as harmoniously
with others.

He was an exceptional graduate student, and has been an exceptional employee
for the past twelve years. I recommend Jonathan Berkowitz without any
reservations to your agency/clinic/school as a School Psychologist/Social
Worker.

I was asked to write a letter of recommendation on behalf of Jonathan Berkowitz.
I have known Jonathan for Over 9 years and have supervised him on many issues
relating to family and individual/group counseling. Likewise, I have supervised
and guided him on the analysis of educational and psychological assessments.
He establishes rapport with the children rapidly and with ease. His ability
to learn and implement new testing material is quite impressive. His reports
are done in a timely and professional manner and his IEP's are accurate and
reliable.

I have found Jonathan to be an exciting and sensitive young man, with much
promise and skill that have won him the admiration of others. He listens
closely to the complaints of others and without stimulating defensiveness,
questions and facilitates clarification. Jonathan can handle delicately both
individual and family dynamics, and can deal effectively with otherwise
insurmountable situational experiences. Jonathan also has excellent conceptual
and expressive capabilities, conveying the most difficult of ideas in a most
simplistic and easy to understand way. This is a special skill. His drive,
sense of humor and fair play as well as his friendliness, smile and approachable
nature have given Jonathan the competitive edge.

Jonathan has won my admiration, certainly, and I am confident that he will
add much to your organization and win your admiration, too. I recommend Jonathan
without reservation.

Elliot Novogrodsky

School Psychologist

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Dr. Vikhta Gurevich, MD
307 Ocean View Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11235
718-743-5555
January 25, 2007
Subject: Letter of Recommendation for Jonathan Berkowtiz
To Whom It May Concern:
I had the pleasant opportunity to work closely with Jonathan during employment
at the Jewish Board of Family and Children Services. He had worked under
me as my colleague as a Clinical Social Worker from March of 2002 until June
of 2003. I then supervised him outside of the clinic from July of 2003 through
the summer of 2006. His responsibilities included providing psychotherapy
for a caseload of adults, couples, adolescents, and children in an individual
and group setting. Jonathan also shared his work as a clinical service team
meeting supervisor and collaborative case conferencing manager with me. During
the course of his employment, Jonathan proved himself to be a hardworking
and talented therapist who was able to quickly develop and maintain rapport
with clients, proved to be an outstanding team player, and an overall exceptional
employee. He excelled in treatment planning, and intake services. I was quite
impressed by Jonathans' ability to complete all paperwork assigned to him.
His treatment plans were always thorough and comprehensive, and seemed to
meet the needs of the clients. Another area where Jonathan stood out was
group leadership and collaboration. He was well prepared for all meetings,
provided valuable and useful information on clients, functioned well as a
team leader when required, and worked effectively as a team member under
the direction of other team leaders. He often took the initiative to get
things started and picked up the slack when things were going slowly. Jonathan
is highly respected, as both a person and a professional, by colleagues,
employees, and clients.
Overall, Jonathan is a very conscientious and able employee. I certainly
believe he has what it takes to make a wonderful therapist in any given situation
and I am sad to see him leave the New York area. As detailed above, based
on my experience working with Jonathan, I can unreservedly recommend him
for any client servicing and/or leadership position. If you would like further
elaboration, feel free to call me at 718-743-5555.
Sincerely,
Dr. Vikhta Gurevich, MD
Psychiatrist

Contact the following individuals who have allegedly
written letters endorsing Yochanan Berkowitz. Please note that the letters
are dated after The Awareness Center created a page regarding Jonathan Berkowitz
on their web page.

Make sure each of the three mental health professionals
are aware that there is a letter allegedly written by them on Berkowitz's
web page.

Make sure each of the three mental health professionals
are aware that several women have stated that Jonathan Berkowitz was sexually
inappropriate with them on dates, and that there was has also been one allegation
of date rape made against him over the last 10 years.

Make sure each of the three mental health professionals
are aware that if Berkowitz sexually violates another woman they could be
held liable, especially after they have been made aware of Jonathan Berkowitz's
past alleged sexual offenses. This is espeically true if manipulates a woman
he is treating (as a mental health professional) into having sexual relations
with him.

Does anyone know what Yochanan Berkowitz (AKA: Jonathan Berkowitz) has been
up to lately? Rumors are floating around that he's being protected by Rabbi
Avraham Braun and is chummy with Rabbi Akiva Tendler. Both are rabbonim at
Ohr Somayach.

Ohr Somayach is also the yeshiva in which Rabbi Alan Horowitz was sentenced
to attend after his 1983 conviction of child molestation. One has to wonder
if Ohr Somayach has a Ner Israel problem?

The following information is being provided in hopes of preventing another
women from becoming the next victim of a sex crime.

There have been numerous allegations that Jonathan Berkowitz has been sexually
inappropriate with women he has dated, which includes a case of alleged date
rape back in 2004. The alleged survivor filed a police report, went through
a rape exam at a local hospital and attempted to pursue this matter with
the criminal court system.

A Grand Jury reviewed the matter and considered the evidence involved. As
a result of its review, the Grand Jury did not find probable cause for the
return of an indictment. Therefore, criminal prosecution was not pursued
on this case.

Over the last several years The Awareness Center has also received several
phone calls from various women regarding Yochanan Berkowitz's behavior while
dating. Many have described his behavior as being sexually inappropriate
for an orthodox man. A common theme has been for Jonathan Berkowitz to present
himself as a psychologist to potential dates, and to ask several women at
the same time to date him exlusively.

According to the state of New York only individuals who hold a Ph.D. or PsyD
may call themselves a "psychologist. According to the New York licensing
bureau, Yohanan Berkowitz has a Masters Degree in Social Work, holds a LMSW
(Licensed Masters of Social Work)

If you know of any single women in Passaic, NJ make
sure they are aware that they could become the next victim of a sex crime
if they date Berkowitz!

There have been several complaints made against Yochanan
Berkowitz over the last few years of being sexually inappropriate on dates.
There has also been one allegation of date rape. I've been told by a reliable
source that the rabbonim of both Passaic and Monsey feel that Yochanan is
ok to be dating, even though he has never under gone a evaluation by a mental
health professional who specializes in evaluating alleged sex offenders.

Berkowitz's past alleged victims seem to be young,
beautiful women who are going through some sort of personal crisis.

It
appears Yochanan Jonathan Berkowitz is back on the prowl. He's someone
who was on our Sex Offender Registry of Alleged and Convicted Sex
offenders. Unfortunately, due to funding shortages, The Awareness
Center had no choice but to remove our offender registry from our site.
Berkowitz had been on our site for many years, after allegedly luring
in young women he was attempting to counsel and also allegedly sexually
assaulting women on dates. Also falsely identifying himself as a
psychologist.

Whether
we like it or not, says Jonathan Berkowitz, everyone in the world is
susceptible to stress. And, Jonathan Berkowitz points out, stress takes a
very real toll on physical and mental health. Jonathan Berkowitz draws
from the eastern tradition of Yoga to help his clients find relief from
stress.There is a practice in yoga, explains Jonathan Berkowitz, called
pranayama. Jonathan Berkowitz says that pranayama is an age-old Sanskrit
term meaning, “the lengthening of the breath” or “extension of the life
force.” The great yogi masters, says Jonathan Berkowitz, understood the
crucial connection between a good life and good breathing. Jonathan
Berkowitz explains that pranayama is a disciplined from of abdominal
breathing, also called belly breathing.Well-practiced abdominal breathing, says Jonathan Berkowitz, is
useful for many reasons. Licensed clinical social workers like Jonathan
Berkowitz often suggest abdominal breathing exercises as a form of
stress reduction and relaxation. In addition to being an exercise, says
Jonathan Berkowitz, deep breathing is also meditative and helps enhance
concentration and posture. It is no wonder, says Jonathan Berkowitz,
that many western therapists and counselors regard pranayama so highly.The basics of deep breathing, says Jonathan Berkowitz, can be
remembered by the simple phrase “abdomen, chest – chest, abdomen.”
Inhale deeply and slowly, says Jonathan Berkowitz, in your abdomen first
until it is expanded. Then continue the same inhalation, says Jonathan
Berkowitz, now expanding your chest. Exhale at the same steady pace,
says Jonathan Berkowitz, first from your chest, finishing with your
abdomen.A great way to prepare for stressful times, says Jonathan Berkowitz,
is to practice abdominal breathing before stress arrives. When you feel
you are becoming stressed, advises Jonathan Berkowitz, take stock of
your breathing pattern by putting one hand on your stomach and one hand
on your chest. If only the hand on your chest is rising and falling with
your breaths, notes Jonathan Berkowitz, then you are not breathing with
your abdomen.To practice abdominal breathing, Jonathan Berkowitz suggests
beginning by relaxing the stomach. While breathing in deeply, says
Jonathan Berkowitz, let the stomach expand with the breath. When the
belly has expanded with the breath, continues Jonathan Berkowitz,
continue the inhalation as it expands the chest. After inhaling a full
breath, says Jonathan Berkowitz, exhale gradually in reverse order. Let
the chest fall first as the air leaves the body, explains Jonathan
Berkowitz, followed by the belly. Repeat these soothing breaths, says
Jonathan Berkowitz, to ease tension and alleviate worry. Abdominal
breathing like this can be practiced at any time, says Jonathan
Berkowitz, even while driving.About Jonathan BerkowitzJonathan Berkowitz received a Bachelor of Science degree in
Psychology from Queens College in Flushing, New York in 1994. Following
studies at the Long Island University, Jonathan Berkowitz became a
certified school social worker and school Psychologist in 1997. Jonathan
Berkowitz earned a Masters of Clinical Social Work from New York
University in 1999, and later was recognized as a Licensed Clinical
Social Worker (LCSW). In 2000, Jonathan Berkowitz was issued a Post
Masters certificate in Early Childhood and Adolescence Psychotherapy.
Jonathan Berkowitz obtained Post Masters certification in Gestalt
Therapy from the Gestalt Association of Psychotherapy in New York City
in 2002.It was while Jonathan Berkowitz was studying at Queens College that
he served in the Brooklyn Public Schools as a special Education
Instructor from 1993-1994. Jonathan Berkowitz also served as a school
Psychologist and Social Worker in Brooklyn with the Board of Education.
Additionally, Jonathan Berkowitz did an internship in social work at
Maimonides Psychiatric Outpatient in Brooklyn.During 1999 and 2000 Jonathan Berkowitz worked as an outpatient
social worker, MSW, CSW at New Hope Guild in Brooklyn, New York.
Jonathan Berkowitz served as Administrative Assistant, MSW, and LMSW at
Fordham Tremont Center in Bronx, New York during 2003-2004.
Additionally, Jonathan Berkowitz offered his services as Clinical Social
Worker, MSW, and CSW to the Jewish Board of Family & Children
Services in Brooklyn, New York from 2002 through 2006.During 2004–2005, Jonathan Berkowitz worked at the Bikur Cholim
Department of Clinical Services in Rockland, New York as Administrative
Director, MSW, and LMSW. Jonathan Berkowitz currently maintains a
private practice in Teaneck, New Jersey focusing on children,
adolescents, couples, and families.To contact Jonathan Berkowitz, call 646-338-5424 or email
berkj1517@yahoo.com. For more information about his services visit
www.familiesheal.com.

-----------------------------------------------------------

Yochanan Berkowitz Discusses the Fundamentals of SkiingIn Home and Family on December 4, 2010 at 5:58 am

Growing
up in the northeast, Yochanan Berkowitz has developed an appreciation
for the outdoor sport of skiing. Yochanan Berkowitz reports that skiing
can offer an exhilarating release for someone that has a lot on his or
her mind. The sport brings a skiier in direct congress with nature, says
Yochanan Berkowitz, as he or she travels over the snowy expanses of
open land.Yochanan Berkowitz points out, however, that skiing is a sport with a
higher learning curve than many others. To ski well requires training
and practice, says Yochanan Berkowitz, and some brief formal instruction
is necessary as well. The key element of skiing, says Yochanan
Berkowitz, is maintaining balance. Balance is best maintained, says
Yochanan Berkowitz, by mastering the correct stance.According to Yochanan Berkowitz, the correct skiing posture involves
standing with feet shoulder width apart and toes pointing slightly
inward, drawing the heels slightly apart. The next step is to bend the
waist, instructs Yochanan Berkowitz, and fan the arms out slightly to
lower the center of gravity. Body weight should be evenly distributed,
notes Yochanan Berkowitz, on the heels and the balls of the feet. This
balanced stance, says Yochanan Berkowitz, is the best way to maintain
control and speed while skiing.Yochanan Berkowitz suggests practicing this stance at home prior to
putting on ski gear. When it comes to controlling yourself on your skis,
says Yochanan Berkowitz, it’s all in the feet. Wherever direction the
feet are turned, explains Yochanan Berkowitz, is where the skis will go.
Before shoving off, Yochanan Berkowitz suggests lifting one leg at a
time and turning the feet gently to the left and to the right. This
exercise will get a skier used to the encumbrance and responsiveness of
the skis, instructs Yochanan Berkowitz. Being strapped into skis is not a
natural position for the feet, explains Yochanan Berkowitz, and it is
best to spend some time getting used to this before tackling any runs.

Avid nature-lover Yochanan Jonathan Berkowitz says that time
spent in the great outdoors is enriching. Yochanan Jonathan Berkowitz
especially enjoys outdoor recreational activities like hiking, bicycling
and rock climbing. As a dweller in the American northeast, Yochanan
Jonathan Berkowitz knows first-hand the value of spending a day
communing with nature.For those who prefer more rugged recreation, Yochanan Jonathan
Berkowitz suggests rock climbing. Rock climbing is not an esoteric fad,
notes Yochanan Jonathan Berkowitz, but an age old practice that explores
the relationship between human and landscape. Two factors vital to
effective rock climbing, says Yochanan Jonathan Berkowitz, are a solid
grip and good balance.Yochanan Jonathan Berkowitz says that a good grip, however, does not
mean a tight grip. Squeezing or clutching at the rock, says Yochanan
Jonathan Berkowitz, tires out muscles more quickly, leading to setbacks
like fatigue and cramps. Holding on to the rock with a vice grip, says
Berkowitz, actually impedes fluid motion. Sometimes on a difficult patch
of rock, adds Yochanan Jonathan Berkowitz, a person will tighten their
grip because they are nervous. The key is to relax, maintain a firm grip
that is not too tight and examine the rock for the route ahead.
Yochanan Jonathan Berkowitz especially cautions inexperienced climbers
to stay focused on the route along the rock so as not to come up empty
handed. There are forearm exercises, notes Yochanan Jonathan Berkowitz,
that will go a long way towards improving a climbing grip.Yochanan Jonathan Berkowitz also points out that rock climbing
requires good balance. Rock climbing puts people in challenging
positions, says Yochanan Jonathan Berkowitz, and good balance helps
climbers to maintain calmness, clarity and comfort as they navigate a
path on the rock face. Before making a move, adds Yochanan Jonathan
Berkowitz, it is important to maintain a keen sense of one’s center of
gravity. There are different climbing exercises, explains Yochanan
Jonathan Berkowitz, that will further help to develop a steady balance.
Inquire with the local climbing community as well as contacting online
resources, says Yochanan Jonathan Berkowitz, to learn the best and
latest balance exercises.___________________________________________________________________________________

Jonathan Berkowitz Offers Useful Ways To Respond To Stress

Oceans2003.org - December 14, 2010

In the years that Jonathan Berkowitz
has been a licensed clinical social worker, he has helped many
distraught individuals. Jonathan Berkowitz reports that the stress which
troubled people carry around with them can have some very serious
health affects. To put it plainly, Jonathan Berkowitz says that too much
stress can shorten lives. Jonathan Berkowitz also observes that many
people respond to stress rashly. Jonathan Berkowitz notes that stress
causes people to lose their tempers, become depressed or otherwise lose
control of their lives and conduct.

According to Jonathan Berkowitz, stress can be traced to two
different sources; internal and external. Internal stress, notes
Jonathan Berkowitz, comes from the way a person thinks, feels and acts
about their world. External stress, says Jonathan Berkowitz, comes from
people or situations outside of the stressed individual. No matter the
type of stress, cautions Jonathan Berkowitz, it’s important that it does
not get the best of you.

Jonathan Berkowitz suggests that an effective technique for
responding calmly to stress is taking a “time out.” This is the simplest
way, says Jonathan Berkowitz, to start taking control of a stressful
situation. Abruptly stop the conversation or activity, explains Jonathan
Berkowitz, that is causing you stress. Jonathan Berkowitz suggests
going to another room or taking a short walk to cool off. If leaving the
area is not an option, says Jonathan Berkowitz, close your eyes and
count to 10. Start with this simple action to take yourself out of the
current of the stress, instructs Jonathan Berkowitz.

Stress tends to agitate a person’s body, says Jonathan Berkowitz,
which becomes immediately apparent in his or her breathing patterns.
People tensed by stress, notes Jonathan Berkowitz, tend to take shallow
breaths. These shallow breaths, adds Jonathan Berkowitz, do not allow
the body to get enough oxygen. So if you are feeling stressed, says
Jonathan Berkowitz, remember that you can regain control by taking
healthy breaths. A good deep healthy breath, explains Jonathan
Berkowitz, is moved in and out of the body by the diaphragm. Jonathan
Berkowitz says that a stressed shallow breath, by comparison, is pushed
in and out of the body by the chest.

Look at the way a relaxed baby breathes, says Jonathan Berkowitz,
and notice how its belly is doing the moving. Next take a look at the
breathing of a tense adult, continues Jonathan Berkowitz, and notice
that the heaving chest is doing all the breathing work. Jonathan
Berkowitz points out that many people find abdominal breathing rather
soothing because it slows them down, in both body and mind. Abdominal
breathing is also very efficient, concludes Jonathan Berkowitz, because
it delivers a larger supply of oxygen to your brain.

About Jonathan Berkowitz

Jonathan Berkowitz received a Bachelor of Science degree in
Psychology from Queens College in Flushing, New York in 1994. Following
studies at the Long Island University, Jonathan Berkowitz became a
certified school social worker and school Psychologist in 1997. Jonathan
Berkowitz earned a Masters of Clinical Social Work from New York
University in 1999, and later was recognized as a Licensed Clinical
Social Worker (LCSW). In 2000, Jonathan Berkowitz was issued a Post
Masters certificate in Early Childhood and Adolescence Psychotherapy.
Jonathan Berkowitz obtained Post Masters certification in Gestalt
Therapy from the Gestalt Association of Psychotherapy in New York City
in 2002.

It was while Jonathan Berkowitz was studying at Queens College that
he served in the Brooklyn Public Schools as a special Education
Instructor from 1993-1994. Jonathan Berkowitz also served as a school
Psychologist and Social Worker in Brooklyn with the Board of Education.
Additionally, Jonathan Berkowitz did an internship in social work at
Maimonides Psychiatric Outpatient in Brooklyn.

During 1999 and 2000 Jonathan Berkowitz worked as an outpatient
social worker, MSW, CSW at New Hope Guild in Brooklyn, New York.
Jonathan Berkowitz served as Administrative Assistant, MSW, and LMSW at
Fordham Tremont Center in Bronx, New York during 2003-2004.
Additionally, Jonathan Berkowitz offered his services as Clinical Social
Worker, MSW, and CSW to the Jewish Board of Family & Children
Services in Brooklyn, New York from 2002 through 2006.

During 2004–2005, Jonathan Berkowitz worked at the Bikur Cholim
Department of Clinical Services in Rockland, New York as Administrative
Director, MSW, and LMSW. Jonathan Berkowitz currently maintains a
private practice in Teaneck, New Jersey focusing on children,
adolescents, couples, and families.

To contact Jonathan Berkowitz, call 646-338-5424 or email
berkj1517@yahoo.com. For more information about his services visit
www.familiesheal.com.

Jonathan Berkowitz received a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology
from Queens College in Flushing, New York in 1994. Following studies at
the Long Island University, Jonathan Berkowitz became a certified
school social worker and school Psychologist in 1997. Jonathan Berkowitz
earned a Masters of Clinical Social Work from New York University in
1999, and later was recognized as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker
(LCSW). In 2000, Jonathan Berkowitz was issued a Post Masters
certificate in Early Childhood and Adolescence Psychotherapy. Jonathan
Berkowitz obtained Post Masters certification in Gestalt Therapy from
the Gestalt Association of Psychotherapy in New York City in 2002.

It was while Jonathan Berkowitz was studying at Queens College that he
served in the Brooklyn Public Schools as a special Education Instructor
from 1993-1994. Jonathan Berkowitz also served as a school Psychologist
and Social Worker in Brooklyn with the Board of Education.
Additionally, Jonathan Berkowitz did an internship in social work at
Maimonides Psychiatric Outpatient in Brooklyn.

During 1999 and 2000 Jonathan Berkowitz worked as an outpatient social
worker, MSW, CSW at New Hope Guild in Brooklyn, New York. Jonathan
Berkowitz served as Administrative Assistant, MSW, and LMSW at Fordham
Tremont Center in Bronx, New York during 2003-2004. Additionally,
Jonathan Berkowitz offered his services as Clinical Social Worker, MSW,
and CSW to the Jewish Board of Family & Children Services in
Brooklyn, New York from 2002 through 2006.

During 2004–2005, Jonathan Berkowitz worked at the Bikur Cholim
Department of Clinical Services in Rockland, New York as Administrative
Director, MSW, and LMSW. Jonathan Berkowitz currently maintains a
private practice in Teaneck, New Jersey focusing on children,
adolescents, couples, and families.

To contact Jonathan Berkowitz, call 646-338-5424 or email
berkj1517@yahoo.com. For more information about his services visit
www.familiesheal.com.

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Survivors ARE Heroes!

The Awareness Center believes ALL survivors of sex crimes should be given yellow ribbons to wear proudly.

Survivors of sexual violence (as adults and/or as a child) are just as deserving of a yellow ribbon as the men and women of our armed forces, who have been held captive as hostages or prisoners of war.

Survivors of sexual violence have been forced to learn how to survive, being held captive not by foreigners, but mostly by their own family members, teachers, camp counselors, coaches babysitters, rabbis, cantors or other trusted authority figures.

For these reasons ALL survivors of sexual violence should be seen as heroes!